Senior Buyer

Newton Aycliffe

Overview:

We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Senior Buyer to join our Purchasing team. This role is responsible for driving efficiencies by optimizing spend, building strong supplier relationships, ensuring compliance, and driving continuous improvement across categories such as facilities, MRO (Maintenance, Repair & Operations), office supplies, operational consumables, professional services, logistics and packaging. Your goal will be to optimise supplier performance, ensure cost-effectiveness, and drive procurement excellence across the business.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute category strategies for indirect materials and services in alignment with organisational goals.
• Lead the end-to-end procurement process including sourcing, supplier negotiation, contract management, and performance evaluation.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand needs and deliver value-driven procurement solutions.
• Manage supplier relationships to ensure performance, cost-effectiveness, and service levels.
• Identify cost reduction opportunities and lead initiatives to capture savings while maintaining quality and service.
• Monitor market trends and conduct benchmarking to ensure competitive procurement practices.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and relevant regulations.
• Use data analytics and procurement tools to report on KPIs, savings, and procurement performance.
• Lead cross-functional projects related to procurement process improvements and digitalisation

Essential Skills and Experience:

• 5 plus years of procurement experience, with a focus on indirect categories.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and contract management skills.
• Experience in managing cross-functional teams and stakeholders.
• Proficiency in procurement tools, ERP systems and Microsoft Excel.
• Knowledge of sourcing strategies and supplier evaluation techniques.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
• Experience in a multinational business/manufacturing environment.
• Proven success in driving cost savings and supplier performance improvements.
• Strong understanding of ESG/sustainability considerations in procurement.
• Ability to communicate and interact with stakeholders at all levels.
• Excellent presentation skills.
• Strong team player.
• Understanding of ESG/sustainability considerations in procurement.
• Ability to travel on occasions.
• Ability to work outside of normal office hours when required.

Desired Skills and Experience:

• CIPS, CPM, or similar procurement certifications.

Job Type:

full-time, permanent